Our driving force
To ignite Africa’s potential for prosperity, nurture responsible fearless leaders, and become the leading university in Africa.
To set a new standard of educational distinction for our continent, students and educators, and nurture the next generation of African leaders as guiding lights for positive impact in a rapidly changing world.
The values that guide our choices and inspire our behaviours.
– Be fearless
– Strive for greatness
– Think differently
– Lead through service
– Be engaged
Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe is a visionary. A progressive business leader, philanthropist, and humanitarian, Herbert Wigwe has been an undisputed leader in the economic and social transformation of Nigeria and Africa. Acclaimed as one of Africa’s foremost corporate bankers, Herbert is the co-founder and Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings PLC, and is credited for moulding Access Bank into the international powerhouse it is today. Herbert embodies the spirit of daring leadership as he continues to revolutionise businesses, lives, and now with Wigwe University, higher education.
Wigwe University is the culmination of his lifelong ambition to build an exceptional, world-class, innovative, yet uniquely African institution to grow the next generation of leaders who will change the face of the African continent. Thus Wigwe University is the African gateway to the world of entrepreneurship, technology, innovation, and impact. Herbert’s mission, through the Wigwe university is to change the course of Nigeria’s future through committed and world-class faculty, globally relevant and locally impactful curricula taught through novel methods to rival, the globe’s most respected universities.
His limitless courage, passion, energy, and dedication to excellence are the foundation of our fearless ethos and spirit. Here at Wigwe University, the fearless, like our founder, will make history.
The truth is that the end to the good we can achieve is nowhere in sight. There’s so much more to conquer. There are more lives to impact and generations to uplift to achieve their full potential. History will favour the brave, those who knew their limitations only because they had to defy them. History will favour the fearless.
Discover the exceptional leaders and experts who lend their insights and experience to shape the strategic direction of our university. Our Board of Trustees is composed of accomplished individuals from diverse fields, committed to advancing education and fostering a bright future for our institution.
Professor Fabian Ajogwu is a SAN and the Founding Partner of Kenna Partners. He chairs the Novare Group in Nigeria (owners of Novare malls), ARM Harith Infrastructure Ltd and NES Global amongst others as an Independent Non-Executive. He is a Non-Executive Director of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc and an Independent Non-Executive Director of Guinness Nigeria Plc.
He has well over two decades of law practice experience in the field of Foreign Direct Investments and Corporate Restructuring in the Financial Services Sector, and Natural Resources Sector; including Litigation and Arbitration in related fields. An alumnus of the Said Business School of Oxford University and an alumnus of the Lagos Business School in Nigeria where he lectures and has taught courses on Business Law and Negotiations over the past 15 years. He is an accomplished writer, he hails from Enugu state, Nigeria. He serves on the board of the Lagos Court of Arbitration as its Vice-President
He is a member of the General Council of the Bar, and the Council of Legal Education (Nigerian Law School). He also served as a member of the Governing Council of Pan-Atlantic University up until 2018. A recipient of Hon. Justice Kayode Eso Award for Excellence, Nigerian Institute of Arbitrators. A Fellow, African Leadership Initiative West Africa, Henry Crown Global Leadership Fellowship, Aspen Institute Fellow, Fellow, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Nigeria, Fellow, Center for Commercial Law Development, Nigeria, Fellow, Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria. Member of the London Court of International Arbitration, London, Legal Research Society, School of Law, University of Aberdeen and member of the Council of Legal Education.
Dr Awosika is the Former Chairman of Access Bank Plc. Prior to this appointment, she was Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministries of Internal Affairs, Science & Technology and Power at different periods. She retired meritoriously from the civil service in 2012. She is an accomplished administrator with over three decades experience in public sector governance. She currently serves as the chairman of the board of Chams Plc and Josephine Consulting Limited.
She is an evidence-based administrator, pharmacist, and bureaucrat. She hails from Delta state in Nigeria. A former Chief Executive of the National Programme on Immunization. Dr. Awosika is highly regarded as the HERO’ of Polio Eradication in Nigeria In recognition of her outstanding services to the nation she was conferred a national honour of Member of the Federal Republic (MFR).
She is a Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and the West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacy. Fellow, National Institute of Directors; Member, Great Britain Clinical Pharmacists Forum. She is an alumnus of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS). She holds a Doctorate degree in Pharmaceutical Technology from the University of Bradford, United Kingdom.
Mrs Mosun Belo-Olusoga former chairman of Access Bank Plc, is the Principal Consultant/Programme Director of The KRC Limited. She served on the Board of Asset and Resource Management Company and previously chaired the Equipment and Leasing Association of Nigeria. She has over 20 years of diverse experience in the financial industry and her wealth spans across Risk Management, Corporate and Commercial Banking, Investment Banking, Transaction Services and Settlement
A leader per excellence and an accomplished professional, she halls from ljebu-Ode, a town in Ogun State. Her life holds attention, mostly because of her unparalleled exploits in the finance sector and her steady rise on the corporate ladder in an industry dominated by men. She is an alumni of the Harvard Business School, Kellogg School of Management, Columbia Business School all in the United States, as well as International Institute for Management Development in Switzerland and INSEAD in France.
She is a member of some local professional bodies: Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. She graduated from University of Ibadan with a BSc Economics.
Tokini Peterside-Schwebig is a Nigerian entrepreneur and business woman. She created ART X Lagos, the first international art fair in West Africa. She is dedicated to defining a new narrative about Africa through culture. After working extensively with brands in fashion and luxury, including the LVMH Group, she founded ART X, the cultural management company behind platforms such as ART X Lagos -the leading international art fair in West Africa and now a cornerstone of the African art sector, ART X Live! which has acted as a catalyst for the local art scene since 2016, a dynamic accelerator for rising musicians and artists; and the ART X Prize – Nigeria’s foremost art award. The fair held its sixth edition this year, both physically and online, with galleries from the continent and abroad.
A keen art collector and patron. She also currently serves on the boards of organisations such as Yinka Shonibare’s GAS Foundation and EMOWAA (the Edo Museum of West African Art) among others. She was named to the 40 Under 40 in Africa by Apollo in 2020, the 100 Most Creative People in Business by Fast Company in 2019, and the Quartz Africa Innovators list of the continent’s Top 30 pioneers in 2018.
Her work has been featured in the Financial Times, CNN, the New York Times, Le Monde and Vogue, among others. She holds a First-Class honours degree in Law from the London School of Economics and Political Science and an MBA from INSEAD, she lives between Lagos and Paris. Tokini hails from Rivers State.
Dr Kenneth Ken-Worgu is the chairman and founder of Nortonel Group of Companies. He is an Independent Non-Executive Director of Access Investors Service Nominees Ltd. Prior to this appointment, He has served as the Head of Operations at Oil and Industrial Services Limited, where he oversaw the new build of two offshores DLB barges and three support AHT vessels in China, developed a healthy opportunity backlog and improved customer satisfaction ratings.
He has over 20 years of comprehensive experience in the Oil and Gas sector with massive and enviable exposure in operations, sales and marketing. A leader per excellence with brilliant interpersonal relation skills. He hails from River State, Nigeria.
He has a passion for commerce, business and commercial activities in Africa. Dr Kenneth holds a Doctorate Degree in Petroleum Engineer from Texas A&M University, Master Degree in Management, a Graduate Certificate in Business, Harvard University, an M.sc in Petroleum and Mining engineering. The Pennsylvania State University, a Bachelor in science in Mechanical Engineer, Drexel University. He is a member of several professional engineering societies including the Society of Petroleum Engineers and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Olumide Soyombo is the founder of LeadPath, a seed capital investment fund dedicated to local tech startups, he focuses on powering revolutionary innovations and ideas in Africa by bridging the gap between the start-up stage and market dominance through funding and structure support. He is also a Co-Founder at Bluechip Technologies where he leads strategy, implementation and projects as he works to build the company into a tech industry leader.
His close to 2 decades of multi-sectoral experience building and managing businesses while investing in both high impact projects and startups. His work is an offshoot of his understanding of the astronomical ecosystem impact inherent in strategic partnerships between tech innovators, technological entrepreneurship and private capital. A leading voice and valuable player in the African Technology and Startup space, he hails from Ogun state, Nigeria and sits on board of organizations. He holds a master degree in Business and information Technology from Aston Business school, England, a Bachelor degree in System Engineering from University of Lagos, Nigeria. As a result of his high scholastic achievement, he is a member of Beta Gamma Sigma society. Olumide is an angel investor and investor educator who believes in the potentials of African technological innovation. He has invested in many of the leading tech startups in Nigeria including Paystack (exited), Piggyvest, Power cube, PushCV, Mono, Trove and over 20 others. He continues to pursue excellence and strategic impact even as he inspires same in others and this can be clearly seen with the launch of Voltron Capital, a Pan-African VC firm.
Uche Wigwe is the Managing partner of Wigwe and Partners, a firm established with a mandate to deliver top-notch legal advocacy and advisory services with international best practices and standards. Prior to the establishment of this firm, he co-founded a law practice; Akanbi & Wigwe Legal Practitioners, whose services attracted an impressive local and international clientele.
A well-seasoned professional with an eclectic mix of local and international experience garnered over twenty (20) years. His wealth spans across Corporate & Commercial Law, Commercial Litigation, Business Formation, Insolvency Practice, Construction Contracts, Conveyances and Corporate Finance/Private Equity.
A brilliant tactician and ethical advisor, he hails from River state, Nigeria. He serves as an active member of the board of directors of Coronation Capital Limited, Trium network Limited and Eko Development Company Limited. He holds a Master degree in Petroleum law and Policy from University of Dundee, Scotland, Legum Baccalaureus (LL.B.) from University of Ibadan and B.sc Banking and Finance, University of Port Harcourt (Nigeria). A dedicated legal practitioner and industry player, He is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the International Bar Association (IBA) and the Association of International Petroleum Negotiators (AIPN)
Meet our Governing Council! They are dedicated to bringing Wigwe University’s vision to life.
By guiding our management and strategic direction, they ensure we remain true to our mission, comply with all regulations, and meet global standards of excellence.
Prof. Okojie brings with him a wealth of transformative leadership experience and a pioneering spirit that is much needed by Wigwe University. He was Vice-Chancellor Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta and Pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Bells University of Technology. Having served two terms as Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), his tenure saw the approval of 63 universities, Public and Private, highlighting his strategic vision and commitment to expanding access to quality education. Prof. Okojie is the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Wigwe University’s Governing Council, his expertise in educational policy development and institutional governance will be instrumental in guiding our university towards greater heights of excellence and innovation.
Seasoned Legal Luminary and Business Leader His extensive experience in legal practice and
business leadership, brings a unique perspective to our university’s governance. His expertise in corporate governance and regulatory compliance will ensure that our institution operates ethically and transparently. Additionally, Gbenga’s strategic insights into business operations will support our university’s financial sustainability and growth initiatives. He was also a Pro-chancellor of a private university and brings valuable insight from to Wigwe University.
Former Supreme Court Justice, Amina Adamu Augie brings years of legal expertise and advocacy experience to Wigwe university. Her commitment to integrity, justice, and human rights will guide our institution in upholding the highest ethical standards and promoting a culture of fairness and equality. Additionally, Justice Augie’s insights into legal education and judicial reform will inform our university’s future law programs and community engagement initiatives.
Dapo Olagunju, joins WU Governing Council with rich experience in global finance and social impact initiatives. As the Head of West Africa at JP Morgan Chase and a co-founder of 234Give.com, Dapo brings invaluable expertise in financial management and social entrepreneurship. His strategic vision and innovative thinking will play a crucial role in guiding our university’s financial planning and investment strategies. Additionally, Dapo’s commitment to social impact will ensure that our institution remains deeply rooted in its mission to serve society.
Dame Aleruchi Cookey-Gam brings invaluable
expertise in law, governance, and public administration. Her distinguished career as the first female Attorney-General of Rivers State and the pioneering Administrator of the Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority (GPHCDA) positions her as a strategic asset in shaping the university’s direction and policies.
With a Master of Laws (LLM) from the London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE) and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, her academic credentials underscore her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning, enriching the intellectual discourse within the university community.
Professor Ajienka was former Vice-Chancellor of University of Port Harcourt, and more recently, Member NUC Strategic Advisory Committee (STRADVCOM). He brings years of experience in
petroleum engineering and strategic leadership. His insights into industry trends and technological advancements will inform our university’s curriculum development and research priorities, especially in engineering disciplines. Additionally, Professor Ajienka’s connections within the industry will facilitate collaborations and internship opportunities for our students, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the demands of the workforce
Director in the Office of the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, Mr. Mairafi is a public administrator and higher education management expert. Mr. Mairafi ‘s organizational development and change management expertise, as well as insights into university education
regulation in Nigeria, promise an era of excellence at Wigwe University. This will further support our university’s efforts to adapt to evolving trends in higher education and position us as a leader in academic innovation and student success.
Drawing from his extensive background in finance and banking, Mr. Emman Chisor-Wabali offers invaluable expertise in financial management and investment strategies to our university. Mr. Wabali is an experienced Economist with extensive Banking (Commercial and
Development Banking) and professional experience in the public and private sector. His career has been marked by integrity, credibility, and passion for progress to governance efforts. A Start-Up Consultant Compliance and Process expert, he has extensive work experience
following his involvement with the Rivers State Bureau of Public Procurement, Rivers State Economic Advisory Council, Technical Committee on the Review and Reform of Nigerian Deposit Insurance and as Corporation NDIC 2007-2008 Controller Investment Appraisal Department, Industrial Development Bank of India Mumbai. Added to all these, Mr. Wabali will be one of two members of the Host Community on the Council.
Professor Marwan Al-Akaidi is a distinguished and forward-thinking leader in Computer Science and Engineering. His extensive qualifications include a BSc, MSc, and PhD from Loughborough University, one of the top 10 universities in the UK, and he holds prestigious accreditations such as CEng, CITP, FIET, FBCS, FIAP.
With a robust academic background, Professor Al-Akaidi has consistently revitalized institutions, transforming them into dynamic centers of education and research. His illustrious career spans key roles and significant contributions across several renowned institutions.
At De Montfort University (DMU), UK, as Head of the School of Engineering & Technology, Professor Al-Akaidi led the establishment of the Media Studio and the Creative Technology programs in partnership with the BBC. This initiative positioned DMU at the forefront of media production technology education and research, integrating industry expertise with advanced academic curricula. His visionary leadership transformed these programs into benchmarks for innovation in media technology, significantly enhancing DMU’s reputation and influence in the field.
At the Arab Open University (AOU), as Vice President of Academic Affairs, he expanded academic programs across multiple branches, all fully accredited and validated by the Open University (OU) UK. He launched two international journals, contributing to the institution’s global academic discourse. His strategic initiatives at AOU resulted in the widespread implementation of academic programs, which are recognized for their quality and relevance across the MENA region.
At the American University in the Emirates (AUE), Dubai, serving as Vice President for Research and Dean of the College of Computer & Information Technology, Professor Al-Akaidi founded the Blockchain Centre in collaboration with Dubai Blockchain. This groundbreaking initiative as a pioneer in blockchain education. He also organized and chaired two international conferences and numerous international webinars, further solidifying AUE’s status as a leader in emerging technologies.
Moreover, Professor Al-Akaidi has fostered strategic partnerships with leading universities and global corporations such as Rolls Royce, BT, France Telecom, Toyota, and Nokia. These collaborations have enriched academic offerings and provided invaluable industry insights and opportunities for both students and faculty.
His dedication to global collaboration is demonstrated through the successful establishment more than 50 international partnerships and the creation of new university brands and centers across various regions. These efforts have extended the reach and impact of the institutions he has served, reinforcing their roles as influential players in the global academic community.
Beyond his administrative roles, Professor Al-Akaidi is celebrated for his commitment to student mentorship and leadership development. At AOU, he significantly boosted student retention through the Student Retention Enhancement Project. His mentorship philosophy emphasizes nurturing curiosity and empowering students for success beyond the classroom. Additionally, he pioneered Blended, Online, and e-Learning in the MENA region and introduced MOOCs in the middle east.
His innovative teaching methods integrate emerging technologies, interactive tools, and real-world applications, promoting critical thinking and adaptability. His global impact is reflected in his editorial and chair roles at over 40 international conferences, keynote invitations at more than 50 global events, and the supervision of 45 MPhil/PhD students and more than 100 MSc students, who have excelled worldwide. With over 300 publications in reputable international journals and conferences, he has made significant scholarly contributions. He is a QAA (UK) auditor and a member of accreditation panels for IET & BCS, among others. Recently, he was appointed General Director for the Middle East & Turkey for the RUR Universities Ranking, and he is a co-founder of Eurosis and General Chair of the MESM conferences.
Wigwe University is thrilled to welcome him as a transformative leader. With his profound knowledge and vast experience, Professor Al-Akaidi is poised to inspire our students, guiding them on a life-changing journey from academic scholars to fearless leaders of tomorrow.
Professor Marwan Al-Akaidi is a distinguished and forward-thinking leader in Computer Science and Engineering. His extensive qualifications include a BSc, MSc, and PhD from Loughborough University, one of the top 10 universities in the UK, and he holds prestigious accreditations such as CEng, CITP, FIET, FBCS, FIAP.
With a robust academic background, Professor Al-Akaidi has consistently revitalized institutions, transforming them into dynamic centers of education and research. His illustrious career spans key roles and significant contributions across several renowned institutions.
At De Montfort University (DMU), UK, as Head of the School of Engineering & Technology, Professor Al-Akaidi led the establishment of the Media Studio and the Creative Technology programs in partnership with the BBC. This initiative positioned DMU at the forefront of media production technology education and research, integrating industry expertise with advanced academic curricula. His visionary leadership transformed these programs into benchmarks for innovation in media technology, significantly enhancing DMU’s reputation and influence in the field.
At the Arab Open University (AOU), as Vice President of Academic Affairs, he expanded academic programs across multiple branches, all fully accredited and validated by the Open University (OU) UK. He launched two international journals, contributing to the institution’s global academic discourse. His strategic initiatives at AOU resulted in the widespread implementation of academic programs, which are recognized for their quality and relevance across the MENA region.
At the American University in the Emirates (AUE), Dubai, serving as Vice President for Research and Dean of the College of Computer & Information Technology, Professor Al-Akaidi founded the Blockchain Centre in collaboration with Dubai Blockchain. This groundbreaking initiative as a pioneer in blockchain education. He also organized and chaired two international conferences and numerous international webinars, further solidifying AUE’s status as a leader in emerging technologies.
Moreover, Professor Al-Akaidi has fostered strategic partnerships with leading universities and global corporations such as Rolls Royce, BT, France Telecom, Toyota, and Nokia. These collaborations have enriched academic offerings and provided invaluable industry insights and opportunities for both students and faculty.
His dedication to global collaboration is demonstrated through the successful establishment more than 50 international partnerships and the creation of new university brands and centers across various regions. These efforts have extended the reach and impact of the institutions he has served, reinforcing their roles as influential players in the global academic community.
Beyond his administrative roles, Professor Al-Akaidi is celebrated for his commitment to student mentorship and leadership development. At AOU, he significantly boosted student retention through the Student Retention Enhancement Project. His mentorship philosophy emphasizes nurturing curiosity and empowering students for success beyond the classroom. Additionally, he pioneered Blended, Online, and e-Learning in the MENA region and introduced MOOCs in the middle east.
His innovative teaching methods integrate emerging technologies, interactive tools, and real-world applications, promoting critical thinking and adaptability. His global impact is reflected in his editorial and chair roles at over 40 international conferences, keynote invitations at more than 50 global events, and the supervision of 45 MPhil/PhD students and more than 100 MSc students, who have excelled worldwide. With over 300 publications in reputable international journals and conferences, he has made significant scholarly contributions. He is a QAA (UK) auditor and a member of accreditation panels for IET & BCS, among others. Recently, he was appointed General Director for the Middle East & Turkey for the RUR Universities Ranking, and he is a co-founder of Eurosis and General Chair of the MESM conferences.
Wigwe University is thrilled to welcome him as a transformative leader. With his profound knowledge and vast experience, Professor Al-Akaidi is poised to inspire our students, guiding them on a life-changing journey from academic scholars to fearless leaders of tomorrow.
Professor Kingsley Chiwuike Ukaoha is a distinguished academic and an expert in the field of Computer Science, currently serving as the Programme Coordinator for the College of Science & Computing at Wigwe University. With a rich academic and professional background that spans over two decades, Professor Ukaoha’s journey in academia began at the University of Benin, Nigeria, where he completed his B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. in Computer Science. His career was marked by a significant role as a Lecturer at Pan Atlantic University, Lagos State, where he began to refine his teaching approaches.
Professor Ukaoha’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the development of innovative methods to engage and inspire students, fostering a learning environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and practical application of knowledge. His contributions to education are complemented by a robust portfolio of research and publications, reflecting his commitment to advancing the field of Computer Science. His academic credentials are impressive, with a Ph.D. in Computer Science (2014), an M.Sc. (2006), and a B.Sc. (2000) all from the University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. Additionally, he holds a Diploma in Data Processing from the same institution (1995).
Professor Ukaoha is actively involved in various professional and scholarly communities. He is a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical & Electronic Engineers (IEEE) since 2008, a Fellow of the African Scientific Institute since 2015, and a member of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS). His dedication to the global academic community is further evidenced by his role as a Visiting Professor of Computer Science at Chandigarh University, India, since 2023.
In addition to his teaching and research, Professor Ukaoha is a regular attendee at international conferences and workshops, where he shares his insights and learns from peers across the globe. His work continues to impact the academic and technological communities, making him a respected figure in both national and international circles.
Professor Kingsley Ukaoha’s commitment to excellence in education, his innovative teaching methods, and his active participation in professional societies underscore his status as a leading figure in the field of Computer Science. His career is marked by a continuous pursuit of knowledge and a passion for nurturing the next generation of technology leaders.
Professor Makanjuola Oki, Ph.D., MSc Corrosion Science & Engineering (Manchester, UK), BSc Industrial Chemistry (UNIBEN)
Professor Makanjuola Oki is a distinguished scholar and expert in the field of corrosion science and engineering, currently serving as the Programme Coordinator for the College of Engineering at Wigwe University. With an academic journey that began with a BSc in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Benin (UNIBEN), where he graduated with Honors, Professor Oki went on to earn a master’s degree in Corrosion Science & Engineering from the University of Manchester, UK, and later, a Ph.D. in the same field.
As an accomplished engineer and academic, Professor Oki has made significant contributions to both industry and academia. He is the Chairperson of the Professional Development Board of the Nigerian Corrosion Association (NiCA), where he plays a significant role in shaping the professional growth and development of engineers in Nigeria. His expertise is further recognized through his role as a chartered engineer with the Institute of Corrosion and the Society of Operations and Environmental Engineers in the UK. In Nigeria, he is a registered engineer with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering (COREN) and an active member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.
Professor Oki’s academic and professional experience includes a tenure as a visiting professor at the prestigious Institute of Petroleum Studies, University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), where he contributed to the advancement of knowledge and research in petroleum studies. His research interests have led to the publication of numerous high-impact journal papers, and his scholarly influence extends to his role as a reviewer for several academic journals. A prolific author, Professor Oki has written and co-authored seminal works in the field of corrosion science, including the book titled Corrosion and Materials in the Oil Industry.
Professor Oki’s excellence in his field has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Nigerian University Commission’s Linkages with Experts and Academics in Diaspora Scheme (LEADS) and the Nigerian Corrosion Association’s Professional Development Award. His commitment to service extends beyond his professional life; he has been an active member of the Rotary Club of Agbara, where he has held the position of President and received several awards for excellence in service
Professor Chinyere Nneka Ukaga is a distinguished academic leader, currently serving as the Director of Academic Affairs and Dean of the College of Management & Social Sciences at Wigwe University. She is also a Professor of Public Health Parasitology at Imo State University, Owerri, where she has made significant contributions to the field over a career spanning more than 24 years.
A trailblazer in her academic journey, Professor Ukaga was the best graduating Ph.D. student at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1999. She earned her Ph.D. in Medical Parasitology from the same institution, supported by a prestigious Tropical Diseases Research (TDR)/World Health Organization (WHO) training grant, under the supervision of Dr. Hartwig Schulz-Key from the University of Tubingen, Germany. Her research and teaching career is marked by excellence, having authored over 157 publications and successfully supervised more than 46 doctoral and numerous master’s degree graduates. Professor Ukaga has also served as a consultant for prominent organizations including the African Program on Onchocerciasis Control (APOC), the World Health Organization, and the Nigerian government.
In addition to her academic and research roles, she has held several key administrative positions at Imo State University, including Head of the Department of Animal & Environmental Biology, Director of the Consultancy Services Unit, and the first female Director of the Quality Assurance Unit and Academic Planning Unit. She was also the first female Dean of the Student Affairs Directorate at the university.
Professor Ukaga has held leadership roles in various professional organizations, including serving as the immediate past National President of the Parasitology and Public Health Society of Nigeria, and as an International Council member representing Africa for the International Society of Infectious Diseases (ISID). She is also a National Executive Council member of the World Federation of Parasitologists, making her the first African residing in Africa to serve on this prestigious board.
Known for her excellent leadership and organizational skills, Professor Ukaga has been recognized with numerous awards and distinctions throughout her career. Her dedication to the advancement of higher education and public health parasitology has established her as a leading figure in her field, both nationally and internationally.
Dr. Achibi Samuel Dede is a distinguished academic, filmmaker, and strategic leader, widely recognized for his contributions to theatre arts and film studies. He is currently a faculty member in the College of Arts at Wigwe University and holds a Ph.D. in Film Studies from the University of Port Harcourt, where he specialized in film aesthetics and genre studies. Dr. Dede’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts from the University of Benin, followed by a Master of Arts in Film Studies from the University of Port Harcourt, focusing on film censorship and intellectual property rights. He further honed his leadership skills with an Advanced Certificate in Strategic Leadership from the London School of Business and Finance.
Dr. Dede has an extensive portfolio of professional training and workshops across Africa, including specialized courses in documentary production, feature film finance, and narrative development. His expertise is further validated by his membership in prominent professional organizations, such as the Society of Nigeria Theatre Artistes (SONTA), the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP), and the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), where he holds veteran status. With a career spanning over three decades, Dr. Dede has served in various academic and professional capacities. He began his professional journey as a Production/Admin Assistant at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) College in Jos and later held administrative roles at Teenco Engineering Construction Limited. His academic career at the University of Port Harcourt has seen him progress from a part-time lecturer to a full-time lecturer and later to key positions such as Coordinator of the Cultural Administration and Strategic Studies Unit, and Director of the Nollywood International Centre of Excellence.
Dr. Dede’s leadership and artistic direction have been instrumental in various cultural events, including the Rivers State Carnival (CARNIRIV), the Abuja International Carnival, and international festivals such as the Notting Hill Carnival in London and the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival. His role as Director-General/CEO of the Rivers State Tourism Development Agency and his contributions as a visiting scholar and artist in residence at institutions like the University of North Hampton in the UK and the University of West Indies in Jamaica, further highlight his global impact.
In addition to his academic and cultural achievements, Dr. Dede is a seasoned consultant and entrepreneur, serving as CEO/Director of Immortal Clan Multi-Media Limited/Fisherman Clan Studios. He has also held significant roles in various boards and committees, including the Nigeria Film Institute and the Catholic Organization for Relief and Development (CORDAID).
A prolific speaker and thought leader, Dr. Dede has presented at numerous international conferences and film festivals, including the Global Leadership and Entrepreneurship Summit in Toronto, Canada, and the Niagara Canada International Film Festival. His contributions to the film and theatre arts industry have earned him several fellowships, including those from the Nigerian Movie Makers Hall of Fame and the Institute of Corporate Administration.
Dr. Dede continues to shape the future of film and theatre arts through his teaching, research, and leadership, making him a respected figure in the Nigerian and global arts communities.
Green, sustainable, modern, state-of-the-art learning and collaborative spaces where ideas can take root and flourish.
We are located in Isiokpo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Our purpose setting and sustainability goals have combined to guide us to build a campus that evokes the heritage of Port-Harcourt as the garden city. Wigwe University mixes the host state’s natural endowments with sustainable design principles to create an exciting harmony between our campus and its natural environment.
Port Harcourt’s tropical rainforest and indigenous plant species, lost through previous agricultural practices, are actively being reintroduced, whilst stormwater attenuation, vegetation and fauna conservation direct our landscaping. Pedestrian, cyclist and electric people-mover campus routes, along with forest walking/jogging/cycling trails, connect students to our surrounding environment, encouraging a lifelong love of nature.
Our Core Value
Sustainability directs and underpins our university’s outlook. We are aligned and measure ourselves against the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals as well as the Circles of Sustainability tenets for urban development which include:
Principle 1
Development and sustainability must be pursued as goals of equal importance.
Principle 2
All environmental impact must be satisfactorily mitigated and/or offset to every practicable extent.
Principle 3
Sustainability goals are more readily achieved alongside poverty reduction, “real” human development, social inclusion and multistakeholder partnerships.
Principle 4
Our staff and students are key partners in the implementation of our plan and must be educated, equipped, and confident to play their roles.
Principle 5
Monitoring, reporting, learning, and improving are critical to achieving our sustainability goals and targets.
Principle 6
Our commitment to sustainability will be reflected in our overall governance structure.
Policy, Laws, Standards and Best Pratice
Self Sustenance
Pollution Control, Conservation, Resoruce Efficiency
Social Protection and Inclusion
Gender Equality
Sustainable Development Education
Partnerships
Monitoring Reporting and Governance